Monthly Special Feature

Proper Maintenance, Removal, and Disposal of PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts

http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/ballasts.htm#ballast08

A Guide for School Administrators and Maintenance Personnel

• Introduction

• Why Should I Be Concerned about PCBs in My School?

• What Are the Health Effects of PCBs?

• Do My Fluorescent Light Ballasts Contain PCBs?

• Should the Light Ballasts in My School Be Removed

• What Should I Do if My Fluorescent Light Ballasts Contain PCBs?

• Is It Really Necessary to Retrofit the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?

• What Are the Risks and Potential Costs of Not Replacing the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?

• Are Students and Teachers in Danger if There are Leaking PCB-Containing Light Ballasts in Their School?

• What Are the Special Procedures for Cleanup and Decontamination after a Ballast Leak or Fire?

• How Do I Retrofit the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?

• What Type of Waste Will Be Associated with a Retrofit and How Do I Handle It?

• What Are the Cost Savings Associated with a Retrofit?

• What if a Retrofit Is Not Feasible in My Current Budget?

EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) disposal requirements for fluorescent light ballasts:

http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/ballastchart.pdf